Bastille performs angelic orchestrated set at the London Palladium in support of War Child

As Brits Week 2020 came to an end, so did their various shows around London and Manchester, of which the proceeds benefited the charity War Child UK. The last performance of the week was by none other than the incredibly talented Bastille, accompanied by a choir, brass band, and full orchestra at the gorgeous London Palladium, where they raised £150,000.

As the stage lit up, the full complement of backing musicians came on stage. The sheer number of individual pieces that went into this performance was immense. Once Bastille hit the stage, the room was engulfed in a symphony of angelic voices and strings to match each of their songs.

At the opening number – Doom Days, from their latest album of the same name – the room was stunned. All of the songs had been reworked in tune with the orchestra, which created an incredibly beautiful atmosphere. Talented frontman Dan Smith kept the whole room entranced by the new ambience of their most recognisable hits, such as Pompeii, Quarter Past Midnight, and Happier.

After shooting to fame in 2013, Bastille always seem to find their way back to the top of the charts with their upbeat indie pop hits, and the band made sure to stay true to their style throughout the whole performance, even with the orchestra.

The unique setting of the show, along with the backing musicians, made the performance feel formal at first. As the venue was completely seated, the audience seemed hesitant in standing up and busting a move until a little later on in the night. Nevertheless, the atmosphere remained one of awe and excitement.

The end of the show also brought to an end nearly seven years of almost continuous touring for the band, according to Smith. Bastille intertwined with a full orchestra was something that the whole world needs to experience. It was beautiful and breathtaking with each note of the night. That was a hell of a way to end their tour and Brits Week 2020.

Kirsten Hubbard
Photos: Virginie Viche

For further information and future events visit Bastille’s website here.

You can read more about War Child UK on their website here.

Watch the video for Doom Days here: